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We tend to think of medical care and dentistry as two very different things. But good dental care is a major medical need, for humans and for pets. Tooth damage or decay can lead to serious infections that will have you rushing your pet to a veterinarian. To keep the problem from reaching that point, watch for these five signs of dental problems.

Signs of Tooth Trouble

1. Bad Breath

Dog and cat breath has a reputation for smelling bad, and due to the differences in diet and hygiene between humans and animals, your pet’s breath will probably always smell a little strong. But if you notice a change in the smell—especially if your pet’s breath smells foul or rotten—that’s a sign of decay.

Veterinarian2. Change in Habits

If your usually energetic dog or cat seems depressed, that’s almost always a sign that something is wrong, and tooth pain is one potential answer. A pet that changes his eating habits or paws at their face or mouth is exhibiting clear signs of dental distress.

3. Excessive Drooling

Again, a little dog slobber is normal, but a change in the amount of drool you see from your dog can indicate a problem. If your dog is drooling significantly more than usual, their teeth are the first thing to check.

4. Visible Tooth Damage

Sometimes, the problem is easy to spot. If one of your pet’s teeth are obviously discolored, crooked, broken, or missing, it’s time to take them to the veterinarian.

5. Swollen Gums

Just like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from gum disease, which can be just as unhealthy as tooth decay if untreated. If your pet’s gums seem swollen, red, or painful, or if they bleed easily, that’s another indicator that your pet needs to see a veterinarian.

If you’re concerned about your dog or cat’s teeth or any other aspect of your pet’s health, call Clark Animal Care Center LLP at (585) 377-1160 to make an appointment, or schedule online.

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